Ocular Ultrasonography in Small Animals

Ocular ultrasonography is a vital non-invasive tool in veterinary ophthalmology allowing real-time evaluation of the eye and surrounding structures in cats and dogs-even when direct examination is limited by corneal edema cataracts hyphema or other opacities. This imaging modality enables detailed assessment of the cornea anterior chamber lens vitreous retina and optic nerve supporting diagnosis of retinal detachment lens luxation intraocular masses foreign bodies trauma and retrobulbar disease. Beyond diagnosis ocular ultrasound assists in surgical planning and guides fine-needle aspiration drainage and other interventional procedures. Mastery of this technique provides veterinary professionals with critical insights into intraocular pathology ensuring timely informed decisions regarding medical or surgical treatment.This guide offers a comprehensive practical resource for veterinarians seeking to develop or refine their ocular ultrasonography skills. It covers patient preparation probe handling equipment selection image optimization scanning protocols normal ocular anatomy and measurement of biometric values. Common pathological findings are described with clinical relevance including tips on differentiating subtle lesions from artifacts. Additional sections address post-procedure care interventional applications safety considerations and effective communication of results to clients.Whether used in routine wellness care or urgent ophthalmic emergencies ocular ultrasonography expands diagnostic capability and improves patient outcomes. Accessible and powerful it remains an essential component of small animal ophthalmic practice.